No pre-flight TN at Sumas or Peace Arch

Just back from Sumas to get my TN a few days in advance of my flight and was turned around (not a formal denial). The CBP person was very nice but after consulting with one of his colleagues told me I had to be leaving for work. I called Blaine (Peace Arch) and was told the exact same thing. I wonder if this is a trend?
Looks like I'll have to wait for the day of my flight...what an obnoxious system...if I get denied it's going to be such a royal and expensive hassle.

That's always been the case. What people usually do is say they're entering, get the approval and then come back after a shopping trip to Bellingham and fly.

I got one in the past this way at Sumas. I'd never lie about my intentions in this way to the CBP. Too much to lose if they catch you for a pretty marginal benefit (having the piece of paper ahead of the flight).

But I'm a pretty poor liar...